NASA Scientists Study Gene Functions To Treat Diseases

SPACE MEDICINE

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Moffett Field CA (SPX) Aug 05, 2004
NASA scientists have discovered a way to identify the gene functions of all of an organism's genes simultaneously by using unique DNA sequences or 'bar codes.'

Scientists at NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif., found that newly validated sequences of synthetic DNA tags, called molecular barcodes, can now be used to accurately characterize gene functions in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as baker's yeast.

"This new approach will enable researchers to study yeast genes," said Dr. Viktor Stolc, director of the Genome Research Facility at NASA Ames.

"Using molecular barcodes helps us understand gene functions under any environmental condition, including the microgravity and radiation of space flight. This technique allows scientists for the first time to unambiguously identify all yeast gene functions in parallel."

DNA sequences are the exact order of the four chemical building blocks that make up an organism's DNA.

Scientists can track cell growth by attaching short, unique DNA tags to a glass slide with many different DNA sequences that are complementary in sequence to DNA molecular barcodes derived from a biological sample.

"Understanding yeast gene functions can ultimately result in treatment of human diseases, as many yeast genes have similar functions in human cells," Stolc added.

SPACE MEDICINE

New Kodak X-Ray Imaging Film To Cut Radiation Dose By Half

Boston MA (SPX) Aug 03, 2004
Eastman Kodak Company announced the development of a new medical imaging x-ray film that will produce the same excellent image quality available today but from half the radiation dosage currently required.

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